Different approach to a coming of age story. There were a few unexpected plot twists that managed to answer a lot of questions, and still leave me confused.

This is an excellent graphic novel suitable for young adults, but also fine for not-so-young adults like me. It's a coming of age story about trying to find your way given parental pressure, guilt and all the rest. The hero is a gamer, which makes the book really accessible to lots of teenagers. It's a great view of the parent/child dynamic, though told mostly from the child's point of view. I highly recommend it--and it won't take long to read it so you won't spend that much time even if you don't like it.

NYTimes Notable Children's book for 2011

The First thing you notice with “Level up” is the cute gamer inspired cover, reminiscent of Scott pilgrim vs the world. Don’t let that fool you. Yang, Gene Luen delivers a mature emotionally driven story in a cleverly fun drawn graphic novel. The underling story explores the burden of expectation some parents place on their children can be like a noose, and when the parent dies the noose can literally choke the child into adult hood. But not all is as dark as it seems. Incredibly funny situations and good friends help the main character through there ordeal. Well worth the read.

A very well done graphic novel. Recommended.